I recently spoke at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Oregon Luncheon. As a retired Registered Nurse who worked in psychiatry for 26 years, I know firsthand the importance of providing the necessary support and care for people experiencing mental illnesses, and their families and friends.

In addition to supporting NAMI through this luncheon, I also participate in the annual NAMI Northwest Walk event. Pictured with me at this year's kick-off event is Dave Dahl, who is President of Dave's Killer Bread, 2012 honorary walk chair, and a longtime NAMI supporter.

Photo credit: Wendy Sample

This year's NAMI Walk is on Sunday, May 20. You are welcome to join my Walk team, here. Join, Dave, me, and thousands of others concerned about people experiencing mental illnesses, by signing up for the 2012 Portland NAMI Walk.